Who Do You Hire to Finish a Basement?

You should choose a basement finishing contractor to finish your basement. These professionals are licensed contractors and will hold a general contractor’s license, but they’ll work more quickly and often save you money over hiring a standard general contractor who doesn’t specialize. Use this guide to hire a basement finishing contractor for the best results.

Benefits of Hiring a Basement Finishing Specialist to Finish a Basement

Hiring a contractor who specializes in finishing basements will provide some important benefits over hiring a general contractor who handles all kinds of construction jobs. Here are some of the key benefits of hiring a basement finishing contractor near you:

• Expertise: Basement contractors specialize in basement finishing, so they have the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the unique challenges that come with working in basements. They’ll have a better handle on moisture control, insulation, and proper ventilation.

• Building code compliance: You’ll need permits to finish a basement, and in order to get those and legalize your space, you’ll need to build according to code. Basement contractors are well-versed in local building codes and regulations related to basements because they handle them day in and day out. They’re more likely to get things right the first time around.

• Design: Many basement contractors offer design services that can help you make the most of your basement space. They can provide ideas and recommendations for layout, lighting, and finishes that suit your needs and preferences. General contractors are less likely to offer these services and are more likely to leave everything up to you.

• Cost savings: While it might seem counterintuitive, hiring a professional basement contractor can actually save you money in the long run. They can help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure that your project stays on budget, and prevent the need for costly repairs down the road.

Can I Hire a General Contractor to Finish a Basement?

You can hire a general contractor to finish a basement, but there are some downsides to consider. Most general contractors will be familiar with local building codes, but some may not know about specific regulations or restrictions in your area, which could open the door for mistakes. General contractors normally have larger jobs going on, like new construction, so they may be less likely to prioritize your project or get to it in a timely manner.

Finally, general contractors will often subcontract parts of the work to other professionals, like electric, plumbing, and heating. A basement finishing specialist is more likely to have a full suite of pros on staff, which means fewer delays and lower costs, in many cases.

How Do Basement Contractors Finish a Basement?

A basement contractor begins the process of finishing a basement by assessing the space's existing condition and the homeowner's vision. This involves inspecting the foundation, addressing any structural issues or moisture concerns, and obtaining the necessary permits to ensure compliance with local building codes.

Your contractor will then create a detailed plan that outlines the layout, design, and functionality of the finished basement, and they’ll work with you to choose materials.

Next, the contractor begins the construction phase. This involves framing walls, installing insulation for energy efficiency, and addressing any moisture or waterproofing concerns. They also take care of electrical and plumbing work, ensuring that everything is up to code. They’ll tie in your heating and/or cooling systems to regulate the temperature in the space, too.

Your pro will finish the space by installing drywall, taping and spackling, painting, installing flooring, and putting up trim. Plumbing fixtures, lighting, and other finishing touches come next. Throughout the project, the contractor manages timelines, coordinates with the necessary specialists, and ensures that all work is completed to the homeowner's satisfaction, resulting in a fully finished basement ready for use. Some basement finishing specialists may also offer design services, in which case they could install furniture and decor to your specifications.

How Much Does Finishing a Basement Cost?

Finishing a basement costs an average of $32,000, and most homeowners pay somewhere between $15,000 and $75,000 to convert the basement to living space. You could pay as little as $3,000 if you just want to add walls and flooring to a small basement. Prices can go up to $100,000 if you need to route plumbing, electrical, and HVAC to the space, install a bathroom and a kitchenette, and add an exterior entrance or window wells to create a livable space.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

It’s possible for homeowners to DIY finishing a basement in some cases, but it depends on the work you need done. If you’re just putting in insulation, drywall, and flooring, you can tackle the job yourself if you have some DIY experience.

However, you should always hire a pro if you need to make structural changes to your foundation, if you have ongoing issues with moisture or water in your under-home area, or if you need to add plumbing, electrical wiring, or heating and cooling capabilities to the space.